Is IPL Too Long? Wasim Akram Takes a Dig at Indian League
Former Pakistan cricket legend Wasim Akram has stirred a debate about the Indian Premier League (IPL) by questioning its duration, sparking discussions about the optimal length for franchise cricket tournaments. Speaking at a promotional event for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in London, Akram quipped that the IPL's lengthy schedule felt never-ending, joking, "kids grow up, but the league keeps running".
Akram's comments come amidst growing scrutiny over the IPL's expanding window, which traditionally stretches over two months. While the 2024 season lasted 65 days, the 2025 edition, shortened due to the Pahalgam terror attack, ran from March 22 to June 3. With the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) planning to increase the number of matches to 94 by 2027, concerns are rising that the tournament could extend to nearly three months.
The former Pakistan pacer contrasted the IPL's extended schedule with the PSL's compact format, typically lasting just over a month. "The best thing about the league (PSL) is that it is played for only about 34–35 days, maybe a little more next year," Akram said, emphasizing the PSL's "short, fast, and exciting" nature. He argued that foreign players often prefer shorter commitments, making the PSL an attractive option. "Foreign players, when they come to Pakistan, prefer to be here for 35-40 days. More than that - two-and-a-half to three months - is a bit too long for everyone. Even I get bored," Akram remarked.
Akram cited the Australian Big Bash League (BBL) as an example of a league that recognized the drawbacks of an extended schedule. The BBL initially started with a longer duration but eventually reduced its length to around 40 days.
While acknowledging the IPL's position as the world's richest and most popular cricket league, Akram suggested that the PSL offers a superior level of talent, particularly in bowling. "Everybody overseas, when I talk to them, they talk about bowling in the IPL and other leagues. They say the PSL, as far as talent is concerned, is definitely No. 1 because we have quality, not quantity," he stated.
Akram's remarks have sparked mixed reactions. Some cricket fans criticized his comparison and timing, considering his long-standing association with the IPL as a coach and commentator. Others supported his views, suggesting that a shorter, more concise tournament could be more engaging for players and viewers alike.
The debate over the IPL's length raises important questions about the balance between maximizing revenue and ensuring player well-being and sustained fan interest. As the league continues to evolve, finding the right formula for its duration will be crucial to its long-term success and the health of international cricket. The IPL's current format involves 10 teams playing a total of 74 matches, a figure set to increase in the coming years.
